Between gorgeous cradles, exquisite kids bedding and an extensive selection of kids art, Green Frog Art is an amazing resource for new and expecting parents. Green Frog Art products boast a style, sophistication and elegance that not only define the brand, but also set an incredibly high standard in the baby and children’s furnishings industry. I love the fact that Green Frog Art designs really can be used in any room in the house, and will blend seamlessly with other well-chosen pieces in a living room, family room, or guest room. We are so excited to be featuring an interview with the incredibly smart and talented Kelly Neal, the owner and designer behind this inspiring brand. Don’t forget to take a look at the entire Green Frog Art collection on RosenberryRooms.com!

Enjoy,

Susie Fougerousse

How would you define the Green Frog Art style philosophy?

Green Frog Art’s style is very much inspired by current styles in adult furnishings. Many of our products, including cradles, are used in rooms of the home other than the nursery so they need to coordinate with those spaces.

What inspired you to become a designer and start a business?

I have a very entrepreneurial family and therefore always wanted to own my own business. I was attracted by the juvenile products industry because the late 90’s was a time of great change and opportunity. As the business developed, I got more and more involved in the design side. Today, I design most of the collection myself.

Why did you choose to design children’s products?

Children’s products are really fascinating from a design perspective because, if done right, there is a lot involved. They must be both appealing to the parents and functional for the child. The engineering is quite complicated because of all the safety standards and you always have to consider how families will use the products, which isn’t always in the most obvious way, and account for that in the design. The combination of beauty, practicality and safety is really intriguing and challenging and I love that!

What is your favorite part of your daily work … when you reflect on the day, what is most rewarding?

The most rewarding part of my day is when I get to talk to a mom or dad who has purchased my products and loves them.

Do you have any advice for other working moms?

There is no magic answer to being a working mom. You have to do what is right for you and your own family’s needs. I’ve seen a variety of scenarios work. For us, we are constantly readjusting as Ava’s (who is four) needs and schedule change.

If you had to pick a favorite design from your collection, what would it be?

I love the Old World collection and used it in my own nursery. It is the perfect combination of traditional and elegant and the dresser is so pretty I was able to move it into another room when Ava outgrew it. I love antiques and was able to mix some special pieces with this collection and blend several different types of wood for a unique look in her room.

A number of things – first, our styling is very unique. We aren’t afraid to use a variety of materials and techniques (carving, moulding, hand painting) in our designs that others shy away from. Second, with my legal background I’m scrupulous about following the regulations and safety standards. Many designers leave that to the production side and adjustments are made that ruin the designs. I design everything with beauty and safety in mind so it comes together seamlessly. Finally, our designs are conceived with the whole home and the whole family in mind and most pieces will last well beyond the baby phase. We build really good furniture that will go the distance.

Do you have any news that you would like to share, perhaps about upcoming designs or introductions to your line?

We’re introducing a convertible cradle this spring. It is an awesome piece and I’m so excited about it! It is a cradle, either rocking or non-rocking, that can convert to a toy chest or love seat and then to a twin bed so it can truly last forever. It is called the Now & Forever convertible cradle. Parents love cradles and they really are the best and safest place for a newborn to sleep, but many parents don’t want to invest in a cradle since it is perceived as a short-term piece. This item allows parents all the benefits of a cradle along with a functional piece of furniture they can use throughout the various stages of the child’s life. It is one of the most innovative things I’ve ever designed.

Now…Just for Fun

Favorite Food: Chocolate covered popcorn from Peterbrook, a local chocolate company

Favorite TV Show: American Idol

Favorite Movie: To Catch a Thief with Grace Kelly and Cary Grant – I love old movies

Favorite Weekend Activity: Playing with Ava and my two dogs, Mimi and Lucy

Favorite Band: I’m not a very musical person and my taste is quite eclectic. Ava has been recently introduced to the Beatles and we listen to that in the car and sing at the top of our lungs!

About

Susie Fougerousse – mom of six kiddos and founder of Rosenberry Rooms – believes there is nothing more rewarding than creating a beautiful space for a child. Her mission is to help parents design inspiring children's spaces, keeping the process creative, fun and stress-free. // MORE >